USCG Exam PracticeRule 9 — Narrow Channels
On the Western Rivers, two power-driven vessels are meeting in a narrow channel. One vessel is downbound with a following current and the other is upbound against the current. Under the Inland Navigation Rules, which vessel has the right-of-way?
- A. The upbound vessel, because she is the stand-on vessel in a meeting situation under Rule 14.
- B. Neither vessel; they must negotiate passage by radio.
- ✓ The downbound vessel with the following current, who shall also propose the manner and place of passage.Correct
- D. The larger vessel, regardless of direction of travel.
Why C is correct
Inland Rule 9(a)(ii) provides that on the Western Rivers, a power-driven vessel proceeding downbound with a following current has the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall initiate the appropriate maneuvering signals. This is an explicit exception to Rule 14(a).
Cited:33 CFR §83.09(a)(ii)